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One flea on dog after treatment. Should I worry about infestation?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Hey again so I found a flea on my dog today about twenty minutes after he had been outside. But as I have said previously I use the monthly drops on him but my OCD keeps worrying there are more even though I ran a flea comb and didn't find anything else. So do you think it was just outside and I have nothing to worry about such as more eggs or an infestation. I have also swept the carpet thoroughly. Thanks again.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 13th, 2017

Typically, a topical treatment works by killing the flea when it bites the dog and sucks it's blood. Because it was live on your dog, it hadn't had a chance yet to bite him and diet. Even if there are more, they will die as soon as they bite your dog thanks to your stringent flea treatments. It's not something I would worry about since he's treated and you found no more on him, but if you wanted to be safe, you can give him Capstar. It's a one time pill that starts killing fleas in 30 minutes, and it's safe to give him now. I really think it was one he picked up outside. I hope this helps!

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 13th, 2017

    Typically, a topical treatment works by killing the flea when it bites the dog and sucks it's blood. Because it was live on your dog, it hadn't had a chance yet to bite him and diet. Even if there are more, they will die as soon as they bite your dog thanks to your stringent flea treatments. It's not something I would worry about, but if you wanted to be safe, you can give him Capstar. It's a one time pill that starts killing fleas in 30 minutes, and it's safe to give him now. I hope this helps!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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